Optic neuritis (optic neuritis): symptoms, medications, etc. • hello healthy

Definition

What is optic neuritis (optic neuritis)?

Optic neuritis or optic neuritis is an inflammation of the optic nerve from the brain to the eye, which belongs to one portion of the eye.

How common is optic neuritis (optic neuritis)?

This condition is very common and affects more women than men, with a ratio of 3: 1. Especially in young women in the age range 14-45 years. This condition can also occur in young patients. The incidence in children occurred in 60% of girls at a mean age of 9 or 10 years. Patients with one-sided disorders have a higher risk of early signs and symptoms or complications.

Optic neuritis (optic neuritis) can be treated by reducing risk factors and it is important to know that about 1 in 3 people who develop the condition will experience it again at a later date. Talk to your doctor for more information.

Signs and symptoms

What are the signs and symptoms of optic neuritis (optic neuritis)?

The common symptom of optic neuritis (optic neuritis) is pain when moving the eye. This condition usually occurs in one eye and rarely occurs in both eyes and attacks often worsen within hours or days indicating an acute to subacute attack - usually rapidly progressing over a few days - peaking within 2 weeks, resulting in:

Decreased visual acuity
Decreased color vision
In more than 90% of cases, there is visual disturbance in one or both eyes

Less common symptoms include:

Seeing a spotlight or flashing light
It's hard to see light colors, you might mistake light colors for dark

There may be signs and symptoms not listed above. If you have concerns about a particular symptom, consult your doctor.

When should I see a doctor?

Early diagnosis and treatment can stop this condition from worsening and prevent other medical emergencies, so talk to your doctor right away to prevent this serious condition.

If you have any signs or symptoms above or any other questions, please consult your doctor. Everyone's body is different. Always consult a doctor to treat your health condition.

Cause

What causes optic neuritis (optic neuritis)?

This condition occurs when the optic nerve becomes inflamed. Optic neuritis sometimes occurs in people without any health conditions, but people with multiple sclerosis (MS) are more commonly seen with this condition.

The risk of developing MS after attacks of idiopathic optic neuritis has been estimated to be as high as 75% in 15 years.

Risk factors

What increases the risk of optic neuritis (optic neuritis)?

There are many risk factors for optic neuritis, including:

Young woman
20-40 years old
Having certain genetic mutations that increase your risk of developing MS and optic neuritis

Diagnosis & treatment

The information provided is not a substitute for medical advice. ALWAYS consult your doctor.

How is optic neuritis (optic neuritis) diagnosed?

According to the classification, optic neuritis is diagnosed on a typical and atypical basis:

Typical optic neuritis requires more attention than causes of optic neuropathy which may require: MRI of the brain and orbit, blood tests, lumbar puncture, chest x-ray.
Atypical optic neuritis much more difficult. Sometimes, a normal MRI scan of the brain means that treatment is easier when compared to high-risk patients with abnormal MRI results.

How is optic neuritis (optic neuritis) treated?

Optic neuritis (optic neuritis) can be treated with drug therapy. The doctor can prescribe steroids which are anti-inflammatory drugs. Steroids are introduced into the blood to speed up recovery. Steroids can also help relieve symptoms of MS.